Day 1 of International Library Week 2026 with Palikir ECE

International Library Week 2026 officially kicked off with the theme “Find Your Joy,” alongside the celebration of the Library’s 38 years of service to the community.

As part of the opening day, we were honored to welcome Early Childhood Education (ECE) students from Palikir School. The Children’s Section was filled with laughter, curiosity, and the joy of discovery as the children participated in activities designed to nurture a love for reading, listening, and learning.

Our dedicated library staff created a memorable storytelling experience by sharing Pohnpeian age-appropriate tales that sparked imagination and strengthened early literacy skills. A special highlight of the day was the reading of traditional Pohnpeian stories, Soulepwelepwehki and Soukepinalo, as part of our ongoing effort to indigenize the Library. These stories helped connect young learners to their cultural heritage, reminding us that the Library is not only a place for books, but also a living space where traditions, identity, and community spirit are celebrated.

The day also featured fun and educational games that encouraged creativity, teamwork, and social interaction. Each child participated with enthusiasm, showing that learning can be both joyful and meaningful when rooted in culture and community.

To conclude the day, every student received a small token of appreciation—a gesture of encouragement for their learning journey and a reminder that the Library is here to support them as they grow. By blending modern literacy practices with indigenous storytelling, we created a joyful and inclusive environment where knowledge, culture, and kindness came together.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS), whose support reaches us through the FSM National Archives. Year after year, they continue to fund our Library Week celebrations and Summer Reading Programs, ensuring that these initiatives inspire and uplift our community. Their generous contributions made Library Week 2026 possible and gave special meaning to the celebration of the Library’s 38th Anniversary of service.

We truly appreciate this ongoing partnership, which allows our students and families to experience meaningful, enriching, and memorable events that honor both literacy and community spirit.

It was a rewarding start to our Library Week, and we look forward to welcoming more young learners and continuing to celebrate the richness of our community in the days ahead.

 

My Child Speaks

On Saturday, April 25, 2026, we marked the fifth day of Autism Awareness Week. The Friends of the Pohnpei Public Library extend our heartfelt gratitude to the strong and dedicated parents who made this event possible, concluding the day with a warm gathering at the library’s playground.

Families and friends of My Child Speaks came together not only to commemorate Autism Awareness Week but also to launch a meaningful humanitarian effort for Chuuk State, supporting families affected by Typhoon Sinlaku. Despite the rain, children of diverse abilities, alongside their families, brought joy, resilience, and purpose to the day, making it both successful and deeply meaningful for the library and the wider community.

This event was more than a gathering, it was a celebration of acceptance, awareness, and shared humanity. Together, we created a space of joy, learning, and kindness, while extending our support to those in need.

On behalf of the Board and staff of the library, we offer our warmest appreciation. May the spirit of giving and understanding continue to guide us in all that we do.

Sapwalap Early Childhood Education (ECE)

On this Friday, April 10, 2026, we were honored to welcome a wonderful group of young learners from the Sapwalap Elementary School Early Childhood Education (ECE) program. This special visit was led by their dedicated teacher, Ms. Almihner Kusto Perez, who was joined by the students along with a supportive group of parents and fellow educators from the Madolenihmw community.

The main purpose of the excursion was to provide the Sapwalap ECE students with a vibrant, safe, and engaging environment where they could enjoy the library’s specialized playground facilities. Throughout the morning, the children took part in active play and social interaction, which are important for their early development. Under the guidance of Ms. Perez and the attending parents, the students experienced a morning filled with laughter, discovery, and physical activity in a space thoughtfully designed to welcome young families.

To conclude their visit, the group gathered to share a communal lunch together. This time of shared meals and conversation added a meaningful sense of community to the day, turning a simple field trip into a truly joyful and memorable experience for everyone involved.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Ms. Almihner Kusto Perez and the entire Sapwalap ECE family for choosing our library as a destination for their students. It is always a privilege for us to provide a relaxing and welcoming space where our island’s youngest learners can play, grow, and create lasting memories together.

Empowering Young Minds: ETSP Students Visit Pohnpei Public Library

 

The Pohnpei Public Library recently had the pleasure of welcoming a vibrant group of elementary students participating in the ETSP (Educational Talent Show Program), a program dedicated to celebrating and nurturing the unique talents of young learners. The visiting students represented a mix of elementary schools, including Kolonia, Ohmine, Sokehs Pah, and Sokehs Powe Elementary School.

the moment they arrived, the students brought excitement and positive energy into the library. Our staff warmly greeted them and provided a guided introduction to the library’s resources, highlighting how the library serves as a place for learning, creativity, and discovery. The visit aimed to show that the library is not only a space for reading, but also a place where talents can grow and ideas can flourish.

Throughout their visit, the students explored different sections of the library, browsed through a wide range of books, and learned how to make the most of the services available.  To familiarize students with research resources, the staff organized a scavenger hunt focused on locating specific titles. As part of the FPPL tour routine, the staff always ensure that the students leave with an understanding that the information within the book is high quality, reliable and valuable for their future.  Their curiosity and enthusiasm made the experience both meaningful and memorable for everyone involved.

The Pohnpei Public Library is proud to support programs like ETSP that empower young individuals to express themselves and develop their skills. On behalf of the FPPL board, Head Librarian and staff, we would like to express our sincere appreciation to the ETSP Office, teachers, students and participating schools for their visit and look forward to welcoming them again in the future as they continue their journey in learning and creativity.